Stockholm makerspace fosters creativity and community for all

In a basement workshop in central Stockholm, a diverse community gathers not just to create, but to belong. Makerspace Stockholm, a non-profit organization, has become a sanctuary for individuals seeking a space to bring their ideas to life, regardless of age or background. The 350-square-meter facility functions as an open workshop, equipped with specialized rooms dedicated to various techniques like textiles, 3D printing, and metalworking.

“

I found the textile room and thought, 'okay shit, this is my shit'.

Juan Hoffberg, 19, found solace and self-expression at Makerspace after struggling to fit in at high school. "I couldn't be myself," he recalls. "But then I changed schools and met others like me. Then I wanted to dress more extremely, with a lot of fabric and a lot of material." Now, he designs his own Japanese-inspired jeans. The collaborative atmosphere is key; members can ask anyone for help with unfamiliar machinery, fostering a continuous learning environment.

“

I couldn't be myself. But then I changed schools and met others like me. Then I wanted to dress more extremely, with a lot of fabric and a lot of material.

Financed by the monthly fees of over a thousand members, Makerspace Stockholm prioritizes its non-commercial ethos. "It feels important that we can be independent and not become a place for making money," says chairman Aron Granberg. "We don't want to be here on someone else's terms." The space is accessible around the clock, with members often working on projects late into the night, while others simply enjoy the social aspect.

“

It's fun that you can see a machine that you have no idea how to use, but then you can just ask someone how to do it. There are always people here who know something you don't know.

Alex Lopez, a member for five years, has mastered many of the tools, including the laser cutter and silversmithing equipment. She now helps guide other members. For Lopez, who identifies as autistic, the Makerspace is crucial for building connections. "Here it's easy to find others who are creators, just like me," she explains. The organization facilitates this connection through a chat forum where members share their projects and plan activities, reinforcing the sense of community and shared purpose.

“

It feels important that we can be independent and not become a place for making money. We don't want to be here on someone else's terms.